Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

If you are craving a seafood dish that marries the rich, buttery flavors of shrimp scampi with the comforting warmth of a baked pasta, then you are going to fall in love with this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe. Imagine perfectly cooked shrimp drenched in a garlic lemon sauce, mingling with tender pasta, and topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, all baked to bubbly perfection. This dish is an incredible crowd-pleaser and a brilliant way to elevate a classic scampi into a hearty, satisfying meal that your whole family will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe lies in its simple and fresh ingredients. Each component is essential, combining to create the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors. From succulent shrimp to zesty lemon juice and melty cheeses, these ingredients come together beautifully without fuss.

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Choose fresh or thawed shrimp for the best texture and sweetness.
• 1 pound pasta (such as linguine, fettuccine, or penne): Pick a pasta shape that holds sauce well to catch every bit of that buttery goodness.
• ½ cup butter: The base of the sauce, adding luxurious richness and a velvety finish.
• 6 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that signature, aromatic kick that defines scampi.
• ¼ cup olive oil: Adds depth and helps gently cook the shrimp without drying them out.
• ½ cup dry white wine (optional): Adds a subtle acidity and complexity; chicken broth works as a great substitute.
• ½ cup chicken broth: Enhances flavor and keeps the sauce moist and vibrant.
• ¼ cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed: Brings bright, fresh citrus notes to cut through the richness.
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste): Adds a mild spicy warmth without overpowering the dish.
• ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped: Fresh herbaceous notes for color and freshness.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sharp and salty, perfect for melting and topping.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides that irresistibly gooey, golden-brown cheese topping.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: To season perfectly at every stage.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cooking the pasta until al dente ensures it holds its shape and texture through the baking process. Once it’s ready, drain it well and set it aside while you prepare the sauce. This foundational step is incredibly important for a flawless pasta bake.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then add your minced garlic. Sautéing it gently for 1 to 2 minutes releases the garlic’s fragrant oils, setting the flavor tone for the entire dish. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter and overpower the delicate shrimp.

Step 3: Add Olive Oil and Shrimp

Next, pour in the olive oil and add your shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful pink and are opaque through the center. Shrimp cook quickly, so keep a close eye to avoid overcooking, which can make them rubbery. Then, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 4: Deglaze with White Wine (Optional)

If you’re using white wine, pour it into the same skillet and scrape up those flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom. Let the wine simmer for a few minutes, which helps reduce it slightly and intensify the flavor. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, simply skip this and go straight to adding chicken broth in the next step.

Step 5: Add Chicken Broth and Lemon Juice

This is where your sauce really comes alive. Add chicken broth and freshly squeezed lemon juice, then stir in the red pepper flakes along with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let the flavors meld together for 5 to 7 minutes. The sauce should be bright, tangy, and gently spiced.

Step 6: Add Parsley

Stir in freshly chopped parsley to add a burst of herbaceous freshness that complements the richness of the sauce. Set aside a small amount to sprinkle on at the end for extra color and zing.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Now blend it all together by adding your cooked pasta into the sauce skillet. Toss everything carefully to coat the pasta evenly with that luxurious scampi sauce. This step ensures each forkful has a perfect balance of buttery, lemony goodness.

Step 8: Add Shrimp

Gently fold the cooked shrimp back into the pasta. Mixing them in now allows the shrimp to stay tender and keeps them as the star ingredient without breaking apart.

Step 9: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour your creamy, flavorful pasta and shrimp mixture into a greased 9 by 13 inch baking dish. This is where all that beautiful flavor will come together with the cheese topping.

Step 10: Add Cheese

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. This combination of cheeses will melt into a bubbly, golden crust that adds indulgence and texture to your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe.

Step 11: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Bake the dish for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is pure comfort food bliss.

Step 12: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the pasta bake rest for a few minutes. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add brightness and a pop of color. Serve while hot and prepare for compliments!

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate the presentation and taste, garnish your Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe with extra fresh parsley and a little lemon zest. These simple touches brighten the dish visually and add that burst of freshness in every bite.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette also makes a perfect accompaniment, ideal for scooping up the leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve individual portions in small ramekins or cast-iron skillets straight from the oven. Adding a drizzle of good quality olive oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes on the top before serving can also amp up the flavor and visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making it a perfect next-day meal. Remember to cover the dish tightly to keep the pasta from drying out.

Freezing

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe freezes well. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, typically about 15 to 20 minutes, to preserve the cheese’s texture and avoid the shrimp turning rubbery. Alternatively, a microwave will work, but heat gently in short intervals.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in your sauce.

What type of pasta works best for Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe?

Pasta shapes like linguine, fettuccine, or penne are ideal because they hold onto the sauce well and provide wonderful texture with every bite.

Is it necessary to use white wine in this recipe?

Not at all. White wine adds extra depth and acidity, but chicken broth is a great substitute for a non-alcoholic version without sacrificing flavor.

How spicy is this dish?

The recipe uses red pepper flakes for a gentle warmth that can be adjusted to your liking. You can easily omit or increase to match your spice preference.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

While the shrimp is the star here, you could substitute with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini, but then it wouldn’t be a Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe anymore. For a vegetarian version, consider a creamy garlic pasta bake instead.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake Recipe is a sensational way to bring seafood and pasta together in a cozy, inviting meal that shines any night of the week. With its vibrant flavors, luscious sauce, and irresistible cheese topping, it’s truly one of those dishes that feels special yet comes together with ease. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a new favorite in your kitchen—it’s comfort food elevated and made delightful by every delicious bite.

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